As the cost of basic goods continues to rise, the local government of Cainta, Rizal has brought back a community initiative aimed at helping residents manage daily expenses.
Mayor Kit Nieto recently resumed the One Cainta Pantry feeding program, which provides free dinner to residents across different barangays. It’s scheduled to run Monday to Friday throughout the year, starting at 5 PM, and can serve up to 300 people per day.
Photo: Mayor Johnielle Keith Pasion Nieto/Facebook
The program follows a rotating setup, with the pantry moving to various areas around town. It officially relaunched on April 10, 2026, at the San Buena Compound in Barangay Sto. Domingo, with its next stop set in Gruar.
To support daily operations, food is prepared at the reopened central kitchen located at One Arena. The General Services Office oversees meal preparation to help manage costs while maintaining consistent service.
Meals are served buffet-style, and residents are encouraged to bring their own plates and utensils. According to the mayor, this setup is meant to minimize waste and ensure fair distribution.
“Para makamenos, ang mga pipila, dala na dapat nila ang kanilang mga plato at kubyertos. Buffet style ang pakain parang walang mag-uuwi ng sobra-sobra,” Nieto said.
Different municipal departments are also assigned to assist with serving and distribution on a rotating basis. The setup, Nieto shared, allows government personnel to better understand the day-to-day realities faced by residents.
“Buong taon tatakbo ang programang ito. ‘Yung masagot natin ang isang hapunan ng pamilya, malaking ambag na rin para sa pang araw-araw nilang gastusin,” the mayor added.
The One Cainta Pantry was first launched in 2019, prior to the pandemic, along Westbank Road in Barangay San Andres. Its return marks a continuation of efforts to provide accessible support at the community level.
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